Free Gas Can Exchange

posted 6/1/2018

This free event is held in honor of Christopher Allsup. He was a vibrant young boy whose life was taken too soon due to a plastic gasoline can that exploded. Christopher suffered burns over 90% of his body and eventually died from his injuries.

To educate the public about the potential dangers of portable gasoline containers, The Legacy of Christopher Allsup Gas Can Exchange was established in 2014. During the event, residents are encouraged to exchange old or potentially unsafe gasoline containers for a new metal safety container that is fitted with a flame arrestor.

A flame arrestor is essentially a screen with small holes that can be made of plastic or metal. The screen prevents sparks from entering the gas container and igniting the fuel. If your gas can does not have a flame arrestor, you could be at risk.

On Saturday, June 9, from 8 – 10 am, exchange your old gas container for a new safety can at our Northwest Hazardous Waste Drop-off in Grimes. Each vehicle can exchange one gas can for a new two-gallon Eagle Manufacturing metal safety can with flame arrestor. Old gas containers will be accepted full or empty but gas cannot be transferred. Exchanges will be made on a first-come, first-served basis and participants will be required to sign a liability waiver.

This event is made possible through a partnership between Safe Kids Greater Des Moines, Blank Children’s Hospital and Metro Waste Authority.